Speedy Granny Ruth Crochet Hat Tutorial
If you're looking for a fun, quick project, the Speedy Granny Ruth Crochet Hat is perfect for you! It's worked in a continuous spiral, meaning no joins, no seams—just a smooth, consistent finish from start to end. Whether you’re making this cozy hat for yourself or as a gift, you’ll love how fast and easy it is to create. Even better, if you can double crochet, you’re already halfway there!
This hat uses just a simple double crochet stitch, where you skip every fourth stitch, allowing the project to come together very quickly and efficiently. You also won't have those big, gaping holes that you sometimes get with crochet hats, giving it a neat and snug look.
Want to watch the tutorial? Here it is:
Materials Needed
To make the Speedy Granny Ruth hat, you'll need some basic materials:
- Acrylic yarn in size 4 (worsted weight yarn or 10-ply if you’re in Australia). Feel free to choose a pom pom as an optional finishing touch to add some extra flair.
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Crochet hooks:
- 7 mm hook for making the initial chain.
- 6.5 mm hook for constructing the hat’s body.
- 3.75 mm hook (or any smaller size) for attaching the pom pom.
- Scissors for trimming yarn ends.
- Needle for sewing in yarn tails and closing the hat’s top.
If you're interested in other crochet hat patterns, you might like the super easy crochet hat pattern, also available in the shop.
Preparing Your Yarn and Tools
Before diving into this project, be sure to pick out your favorite acrylic yarn in a gorgeous color. Worsted weight works best, but if you want a chunkier or lighter look, feel free to experiment with other yarns and adjust your hook size accordingly.
Make sure your scissors are sharp for clean cuts, and remember to have your needle ready for sewing in ends. If you're adding a pom pom to the top, choose one that complements your yarn’s color and texture.
Understanding the Spiral Method
What’s unique about the Speedy Granny Ruth hat is that it's worked in a spiral with no joining. This eliminates that noticeable seam you often get when working in rounds with crochet projects. Working in a spiral means you’ll go continuously from the start of the project to the end without breaking the flow. The best part? It gives a sleek and seamless look.
Creating the Base Chain
To start, you'll need to choose the size of the hat. The base chain is a simple multiple of four, plus one extra chain.
Here’s a guide to the number of chains you'll need based on the size you want:
- Infant Size: Chain 44
- Toddler Size: Chain 48
- Child Size: Chain 52
- Small Adult: Chain 56
- Medium Adult: Chain 60
- Large Adult: Chain 64
- Extra Large Adult: Chain 68
Once you've chained the correct number for your hat size, add one additional chain. This will give you the proper starting foundation for working in the spiral pattern.
Switching to the Smaller Hook
After you've finished your chain, it’s time to switch to the 6.5 mm hook. The smaller hook helps form the body of the hat while keeping the stitches tight and even. You’ll be working into the back loops of your chain to create those beautiful little V’s along the base of your hat.
The first row uses basic double crochets but makes sure to work into the fourth loop from the hook, which helps set up the neat spiral structure of the hat.
Quick Guide to Double Crochet
If you’re new to crochet or just need a refresher, here’s a reminder on how to double crochet:
- Yarn over, insert your hook into the stitch.
- Yarn over again and pull through, leaving three loops on your hook.
- Yarn over again and pull through the first two loops.
- Yarn over one final time and pull through the remaining two loops.
Congratulations! That’s one double crochet stitch completed. Now, repeat this process to complete your sets of three double crochets.
Creating Your First Row
As you start your first row, you're going to make three double crochets into the chain, followed by skipping one stitch. Then, you chain one and continue with another set of three double crochets. Keep doing this until you reach the end of the row.
This stitch pattern is what makes the hat so efficient to crochet because you're skipping every fourth stitch. It speeds up the process, and before you know it, your project is well underway!
For a detailed and step-by-step approach to your crochet projects, don’t forget to check out the written patterns section on the website.
The Spiral Continues
Now that you’ve completed your first row, you're already ahead of the curve! One of the things that make this project so satisfying is that after the first row, there’s really no need to slow down. Just keep going in a continuous spiral, maintaining your tension and stitch pattern.
If you’re unsure how tall to make your hat, a good guideline is:
- 7 inches for kids.
- 8 inches for adults.
You can also customize it based on whether or not you want a flip-up brim. If you do, add an extra 2–3 inches to the total height to give your brim a nice fold.
Closing the Hat
When your hat has reached the height you want, it’s time to close the top. To do this, cut your yarn, leaving about a 10-inch tail. Thread your yarn needle and weave it in and out along the top edge, cinching the hole closed as you pull tight.
To give the closing some extra security, tie a simple knot inside the hat. Then, sew in the tail to make sure it’s firm and tidy.
Adding Your Pom Pom
If you opted for a pom pom on top, now’s the fun part! Use a small hook to bring the elastic tab of the pom pom through the center opening of your hat. Thread one of the remaining yarn tails through the elastic and then tie the two tails in a bow on the inside of the hat. This keeps the pom pom secure, but also easily removable for washing.
Fixing the Starting Join
If you notice a slight gap where you started, don’t worry. It’s easy to fix. Simply thread the yarn through a needle and mimic a crochet stitch over the gap. Pull it tight to close, tie off the yarn, and weave in all loose ends for a polished, professional look.
Pair it with the Speedy Granny Ruth Scarf!
Want an extra cozy accessory? Check out the matching Speedy Granny Ruth Scarf. It's the perfect companion piece to your new hat, made with similar stitches and a quick project to complete.
Troubleshooting Common Problems
- Tension Issues: If your stitches feel too loose or too tight, consider adjusting your hook size, or practicing your double crochet to get a smooth result.
- Twisting in the Chain: Take your time to spread out the chain and ensure you’re crocheting in the right direction.
Left Handed?
Care and Maintenance
Once your hat is complete, make sure to treat the yarn with care. Acrylic yarn can easily be washed, but it's always best to remove the pom pom beforehand. Just untie the bow, slip off the elastic, and you're all set!
Conclusion and Next Steps
With your Speedy Granny Ruth Crochet Hat finished, you'll have a cozy, fashionable accessory in no time! The spiral construction gives it a professional and seamless look. Plus, it's fast enough that you'll want to make more in different sizes or colors for friends and family.
For more crochet inspiration, don’t forget to explore other no-seam patterns and share pictures of your creations!
We all know crochet takes practice, so don’t worry if your first hat isn’t perfect—the next one will be even better! Stay hooked and keep creating those beautiful stitches.
Frequently Asked Questions
Q1: What type of yarn works best for the Speedy Granny Ruth Crochet Hat?
A1: The recommended yarn is acrylic in size 4, also known as worsted weight yarn or 10-ply in Australia. This type of yarn ensures the right amount of warmth and ease of care.
Q2: Can I use a different hook size if I don’t have the ones specified?
A2: Yes, you can adjust the hook sizes slightly if you need to, but be aware that this may alter the size and tension of your finished hat. Testing with a swatch can help determine the right gauge.
Q3: How do I adjust the hat pattern for a custom size?
A3: To customize the size, increase or decrease the base chain in multiples of four. Remember to keep the spiral construction consistent as you modify.
Q4: What if I struggle with maintaining a consistent tension?
A4: Practicing with scrap yarn can help improve your tension consistency. If your stitches are too tight, try using a larger hook. If they are too loose, consider using a smaller hook.
Q5: Can I substitute other types of yarn with this pattern?
A5: Yes, you can experiment with different yarns for different effects. Just be sure to adjust your hook size and check your gauge to ensure the hat turns out as desired.
Q6: How should I care for my completed crochet hat?
A6: Most acrylic yarns can be machine-washed on a gentle cycle. Remove the pom pom before washing, and lay the hat flat to dry to maintain its shape.
Q7: Is the tutorial suitable for beginners?
A7: Absolutely! The pattern uses basic double crochet stitches, so it's a great project for beginners looking to practice or improve their skills.
Christa Patel is an experienced crochet teacher who uses her Secret Yarnery platform to bring people together through the art of crochet. Known for her clear explanations and step-by-step tutorials, Christa makes crochet something anyone can learn and enjoy, building a community of crafters who are excited to create and connect.
Comment (1)
I chained 56 + 1 for my hat. I go into the 4th back loop and do 2 double crochets because you say the chain counts as a double crochet. When I get to the end and skip one stitch, I still have 3 chains, what have I done wrong? I’ve taken it apart 4 times now with the same results.